Friday, November 25, 2016

TENNESSEE -- The owner of a dog found in such poor condition that its ribs and spine were visible has been arrested for animal cruelty.

According to Sevier County Sheriff Ron Seals, a tip led the department’s animal control unit to respond to a home on Kodak Road in Kodak on Nov. 18, 2016 where officers discovered the female pit bull mix, estimated to be 8-9 months old (juvenile puppy), inside the home, emaciated and in poor condition.

They transported the dog to a local veterinary clinic for examination and treatment.

Officers arrested the dog’s owner, 29-year-old Nicholas Lee Payne, on Nov. 21, 2016 for Aggravated Animal Cruelty and booked him into the Sevier County Jail. He was released on a $4,000 bond and a hearing date has been set for Jan. 9, 2017.

Payne surrendered the dog to authorities.

Pets Without Parents in Sevierville agreed to care for the dog and place it for adoption when it has recovered. Donations for the dog’s care can be made in person at 901 Mize Lane in Sevierville or by visiting the shelter’s website.

December 28, 2015
Nicholas Lee Payne, 28, Kodak, was charged with driving on a revoked/suspended license and released on $2,000 bond.

November 6, 2016
Nicholas Lee Payne, 29, Kodak, was charged with failure to appear and held without bond.